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Jelani Jenkins Puts a Period on Gator Excellence

Image/Tim Casey, University of Florida Athletic Association

By Scott Carter, Senior Writer 

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Jelani Jenkins has heard cheers at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, none louder than when he returned a blocked punt for a touchdown to beat Louisiana in the final seconds in 2012.

The kind of applause that spread throughout The Swamp on Friday night was different, but as equally satisfying for Jenkins.

"It's special and puts a period on this whole Gator experience that I've had, to be able go and walk in the same Swamp that I played football in," Jenkins said. "It was always important for me to finish up. It was always part of the plan."

Jenkins completed his degree this spring when he returned to campus following his third season with the NFL's Miami Dolphins. In the days leading up to Friday night's commencement ceremony, Jenkins spent time at Miami's three-day voluntary minicamp.

Jenkins seeks to stay healthy this season and return to the form he showed in 2014 during his breakout season in Miami. He signed with UF out of Maryland in 2009 and found a home.

"UF provided a sense of community,'' he said. "Playing in the Swamp is just something I will never forget."

For more from Jenkins and sights and sounds from his special night on Friday, check out this video from GatorVision

Original Source: http://floridagators.com/news/2016/5/2/football-nfl-linebacker-jelani-jenkins-puts-a-period-on-gator-experience.aspx

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